Can I Wear Makeup After IPL Therapy?

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Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy is a popular treatment that leaves your complexion looking and feeling younger. From reducing fine lines to erasing sun damage and age spots, IPL can tackle many common concerns.

Though IPL is a safe way to refresh your skin, it does come with important aftercare instructions that should be followed closely. For example, Evolve Med Spa recommends avoiding makeup until all signs of redness and swelling have disappeared.

Want to know more about post-treatment care? Read on to learn why makeup should be avoided immediately after a photofacial. Call our Dallas, TX team members to schedule a skin rejuvenation treatment appointment or get started — board-certified physician Dr. Tricia Shimer is available to answer your questions.

Why IPL?

IPL therapy erases troublesome signs of aging without resorting to invasive procedures. This treatment emits concentrated light energy to penetrate deep beneath the surface of your skin, targeting discoloration and other age-related concerns like wrinkles. Sessions are performed by one of our professionals in about 20 – 30 minutes and are considered a safe, gentle way to improve the appearance of your complexion.

About IPL recovery

You can carry on with your day-to-day life after an IPL photofacial. Some redness and swelling are expected but should subside within 24 hours. Dr. Shimer recommends a soothing cream and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce discomfort.

It takes 2 – 5 days for minor irregularities to rise to the surface of your skin before flaking away. Do not pick at the flakes or attempt to scrub them off — this can cause scarring, infection, or other unwanted complications.

Is it safe to wear makeup after skin rejuvenation treatment?

Evolve Med Spa provides detailed post-treatment instructions to ensure successful results from an IPL photofacial in Dallas, TX. This includes avoiding makeup and cosmetics while your skin is still healing. This is because makeup can irritate your skin and make IPL recovery more difficult. Some products also block pores and trap bacteria. We recommend waiting until all side effects have subsided before resuming your usual beauty routine.

Tips for applying makeup after IPL

Follow these guidelines to help keep your skin looking vibrant after IPL therapy:

  • Use lightweight and non-comedogenic foundations: Select products that are unlikely to block pores or leave your skin feeling heavy.

  • Avoid products with harsh chemicals, heavy fragrances, and dyes: Some ingredients can worsen post-IPL skin irritation.

  • Less is more: Don’t layer too many cosmetics on top of your skin — this can make matters worse.

  • Cleanse thoroughly before and after application: This removes any residue that may linger and cause breakouts.

How to prepare for your next IPL treatment

Take good care of your skin before attending your next IPL photofacial appointment. Wear a high SPF sunscreen when spending time outdoors, and avoid tanning beds altogether. Try to stay away from too many processed foods, alcohol, and caffeine — these substances can age your skin faster. We recommend scheduling regular treatments at Evolve Med Spa to keep your complexion looking great long-term.

Learn about IPL recovery from a professional

IPL recovery is straightforward when you follow the advice of a board-certified physician. Evolve Med Spa is proud to provide advanced solutions for all of your skin concerns. Call now to meet with Dr. Tricia Shimer and learn more about IPL therapy in Dallas, TX. We can offer advice about post-treatment care and help you look your best for any occasion.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.